The 31-year-old signed a two-year contract with Villa on 27 August after taking until the closing stages of the transfer window to secure a new club. Yet almost six weeks later, the midfielder had still not played a minute for Unai Emery’s side.
Goretzka’s difficult introduction to life in England began shortly after he arrived, when he suffered a knee injury during training. The problem has kept him out of action and extended what was intended to be a short interruption into a prolonged absence.
The midfielder acknowledged that his body had struggled to adapt to the increased demands after a period away from competitive football.
“Unfortunately, my body reacted to the increased workload after my time away from the pitch. It is frustrating, but I need this short break now to return to full strength,” Goretzka said after the injury.
The recovery has taken longer than hoped, leaving the former Germany international waiting for an opportunity to make his mark at Villa. His lack of match fitness is also a consideration after such a lengthy period without competitive minutes.
There are, however, encouraging signs that the wait could soon be over. Emery offered a positive update on the midfielder’s progress, confirming that Goretzka has resumed training with the squad.
“Not tomorrow. He is training with us on Monday and Thursday. I don’t know whether he will be ready for Wednesday,” Emery said.
“Hopefully, in a few days, he will be able to train regularly again and be included in the squad.”
The manager’s comments suggest that Goretzka is moving closer to selection, although his availability for the next match remains uncertain. A return to regular training will be an important step before Villa can consider giving him competitive minutes.
Goretzka will now hope to put the injury behind him and demonstrate that he can become an important player for Emery. After a frustrating start to his Villa career, the priority is to regain full fitness and build towards his first appearance.